Get ready to elevate your party game with these incredibly easy Vodka Gummy Bears! Requiring just two simple ingredients and a few hours of soaking, these delightful adult cocktail candies are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Forget complicated cocktails; these boozy bears offer a fun, flavorful, and delightfully chewy way to enjoy your favorite spirits. Perfect for Halloween, game nights, holiday celebrations, or just a casual get-together with friends, they’re a unique treat that guests will rave about.
Easy Vodka Gummy Bears: Your Go-To Adult Party Treat
Vodka gummy bears are more than just a snack; they’re an experience! These alcohol-infused treats are surprisingly simple to make, yet they deliver a punch of flavor and fun that makes them a memorable addition to any adult event. Just remember to keep them out of reach of children – these are strictly for grown-ups!
My journey with making these started way back in college, and they’ve been a staple at my parties ever since. While I won’t specify exactly how long ago college was, let’s just say it predates the new millennium! Over the years and countless batches, I’ve perfected a quick and efficient method for making them. Initially, I used to refrigerate them throughout the soaking process, but I soon discovered a little secret: letting the gummy bears soak at room temperature significantly speeds up absorption. This means less waiting and more enjoyment!
I typically leave the bowl lightly covered on the kitchen counter, checking on them after a few hours and then again at the 24-hour mark. The best part? You can easily prepare these the day before your party, allowing them ample time to plump up with delicious vodka, and have them perfectly ready to serve when your guests arrive. They’re a stress-free party solution that never fails to impress.
And if vodka isn’t your spirit of choice, feel free to switch it up! These delectable cocktail candies can also be made with rum, transforming them into “rummy bears.” The possibilities for customization are endless, allowing you to tailor them to your personal taste or party theme.
One of my favorite memories involving boozy gummies dates back to the Iowa Chicken Run, just outside Lake Charles, Louisiana. It was 9 AM, and a local offered me a jar of gummy worms that had been soaking in booze for quite some time. We all shared a good laugh as we celebrated Mardi Gras, enjoying the unexpected treat. It was one of those quirky travel moments that you never forget – riding a float, watching kids chase a chicken, all while savoring a few alcohol-infused gummy worms. Pure, unadulterated fun!
Crafting Your Perfect Vodka Gummy Bears: Ingredients & Equipment
Making these irresistible vodka-infused gummy bears requires minimal effort and only two key components. The secret to success lies in choosing the right quality ingredients and having the proper tools on hand. Here’s everything you’ll need for epic results:
Essential Ingredients:
- Vodka: The star of the show!
- Bag of Gummy Bears: Your delicious canvas for infusion.
Choosing Your Vodka: You have a lot of flexibility here. You can opt for traditional unflavored vodka for a classic taste, or get creative with flavored varieties. Citrus vodkas (like orange or lemon), whipped cream vodka, vanilla vodka, or even berry-flavored vodkas can add an exciting twist to your gummies. However, the most crucial factor is using a quality vodka. Trust me, you will taste the difference! Cheaper vodkas tend to impart a harsher, less pleasant alcohol flavor, which can overpower the delightful sweetness of the gummies. A good quality vodka will blend seamlessly, offering a smoother and more enjoyable boozy bite.
Selecting the Best Gummy Bears: Not all gummy bears are created equal when it comes to alcohol absorption. We’ve had great success with Black Forest Gummies and Haribo Gummies, as they tend to hold their shape well after soaking. Some brands, particularly lower-quality ones, might disintegrate or become a sticky, gooey mess. Look for firm, quality gummy bears that can withstand the soaking process. Avoid chocolate-covered gummy bears entirely, as the chocolate coating will prevent the alcohol from absorbing properly, leading to a disappointing and messy outcome. Stick to classic, uncoated gummies for the best results.
Equipment Needed:
- Airtight Bowl or Container with a Lid: Essential for soaking and storage. Choose one with enough space for the gummies to expand without overflowing.
- Spoons or Toothpicks: For serving your boozy treats hygienically and easily.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Vodka Gummy Bears
Creating these fun adult treats is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfectly plump and potent vodka gummy bears. While I’ll give you a quick overview here, you can find a more detailed, printable recipe card at the end of this post for specific measurements and instructions.
Step 1: Prepare Your Gummy Bears
Begin by adding your desired quantity of gummy bears into a clean, appropriately sized bowl or container. Make sure there is plenty of room for the gummy bears to expand significantly in size as they absorb the vodka. Don’t overcrowd the container.
Step 2: Add the Vodka
Carefully pour your chosen vodka over the gummy bears. Ensure that the vodka just barely covers the top layer of gummies. You don’t need to completely submerge them with a large excess of liquid, as they will draw it in. Cover the bowl lightly with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent evaporation and keep out any dust.
Step 3: Let Them Soak at Room Temperature
This is where the magic happens! Allow the gummy bears to sit and soak at room temperature for at least a few hours, or ideally, up to 24 hours. Soaking at room temperature (as opposed to refrigeration) drastically improves the absorption rate. The longer they soak, the larger and more potent your vodka gummy bears will become.
The Transformation: How Long to Soak Gummy Bears in Vodka
The soaking process is fascinating to observe. The gummy bears slowly absorb the alcohol, plumping up over time and changing in texture. Here’s a visual breakdown of what to expect:
After 2 Hours: You’ll start to notice a visible change. The gummy bears will begin to swell, becoming slightly larger and softer. At this stage, there will still be a significant amount of visible vodka remaining in the bowl, indicating they have more absorbing to do.
After 12 Hours: The bears will have grown considerably in size. You’ll observe a noticeable reduction in the amount of vodka in the bowl, as the gummies continue to draw in the liquid. They’ll be much plumper and softer at this point, beginning to approach their ideal texture.
After 24 Hours: This is the sweet spot! The gummy bears will be fully puffed up and significantly larger than their original size. Most, if not all, of the vodka should be absorbed. They will also tend to stick together less, making them easier to serve and enjoy. At 24 hours, they reach their peak potency and texture.
Important Considerations & FAQs About Vodka Gummy Bears
While these boozy treats are incredibly fun, it’s essential to understand their potency and how to handle them responsibly.
Do Vodka Gummy Bears Get You Drunk?
Yes, absolutely! These vodka-infused gummy bears can definitely get you drunk, depending on how many you consume. It’s crucial to remember that each gummy bear is essentially a tiny, potent cocktail. They don’t taste as alcoholic as a regular drink, which can make it easy to overindulge without realizing how much alcohol you’re consuming. Always exercise caution and enjoy them responsibly, being mindful of your intake. They can indeed sneak up on you!
Preparation and Storage Tips for the Best Results
Making your vodka gummy bears ahead of time is one of their biggest advantages, and proper storage ensures they remain delicious for your event.
Make Ahead: These vodka gummies are the ultimate make-ahead cocktail candy! For the best flavor and texture, they are at their peak after a full 24 hours of soaking in vodka. This means you can prepare them the day before your party, freeing up valuable time on the day of your event.
Storage: Once infused, store your Vodka Gummy Bears in the same covered container (preferably airtight) in the refrigerator for up to two days. While they will remain edible for longer, they may start to become mushier in texture past the two-day mark. For optimal enjoyment, consume them within 48 hours of full absorption.
Freezing: Freezing gummy bears overnight has recently become a popular TikTok trend, with many claiming it elevates their texture to a delightful chewy-yet-firm consistency. While we haven’t personally tried this method with our vodka-infused bears, it’s an interesting idea if you’re looking to experiment with texture. If you do try it, ensure they are stored in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Unleash Your Creativity: Recipe Variations
The beauty of vodka gummy bears lies in their versatility. You can easily customize this recipe to suit different tastes, themes, or dietary needs.
Substitutions and Flavor Enhancements:
As mentioned, the quality of your vodka matters. Beyond that, feel free to experiment with a variety of spirits and gummy candy types:
- Flavored Vodkas: Infuse your gummies with exciting flavors! Think fruity vodkas (raspberry, peach, watermelon), orange vodka for a citrus burst, whipped cream vodka for a creamy sweetness, or vanilla-flavored vodka for a warm, comforting twist.
- Other Spirits: Don’t limit yourself to vodka! Coconut rum can create tropical “rummy bears,” while flavored gin can add an intriguing botanical note. Cinnamon bears soaked in Fireball whiskey are an absolutely delicious and spicy alternative for those who enjoy a kick.
- Different Gummy Candies: This recipe isn’t just for gummy bears! Adapt it for gummy worms, gummy rings, gummy cola bottles (which pair wonderfully with rum), or any other fun gummy candy you fancy. Just remember the rule about quality and avoiding chocolate coatings.
Dietary Adaptations:
- Vegetarian + Vegan Option: Traditional gummy bears contain gelatin. To make this recipe suitable for vegetarians and vegans, simply use gelatin-free gummy bears, which are readily available in many health food stores and online.
- Gluten-Free: For gluten-free eaters, ensure you select gummy bears that are certified gluten-free. Most pure gummy candies are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always best to check the packaging to be safe.
- Alcohol-Free Option: If you want the fun of expanded, flavorful gummies without the alcohol, you can replace the vodka with a non-alcoholic spirit alternative, fruit juice, or even a strong, flavorful tea.
- Sugar-Free: The original recipe contains a fair amount of sugar from the gummies. To create a sugar-free version, use sugar-free gummy bears. Be aware that artificial sweeteners in sugar-free gummies might affect the texture or taste slightly.
- Make It Spicy: For an adventurous palate, infuse your gummy bears with a bit of heat. Use spicy vodka, spicy gummy bears (if you can find them), or a combination of both for super-duper spicy gummies that will surprise and delight.
Scaling the Recipe:
This recipe is incredibly easy to scale. We typically use a 1:1 ratio of gummy bears to vodka (e.g., one cup of gummy bears to one cup of vodka), which makes it simple to adjust to your desired yield. Whether you’re making a small batch for a cozy evening or a huge batch for a massive party, the ratio remains consistent.
Tips for the Best Vodka Gummy Bears
- Preventing Stickiness: If your vodka-infused gummy bears start to stick together after soaking, a quick rinse with cold water can help separate them. Simply place them in a colander, rinse briefly, and then pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Room Temperature Soaking: Seriously, this is key! Avoid putting them in the fridge during the initial soaking phase. The cooler temperature slows down absorption, making the process much longer. Only refrigerate them after they’ve fully absorbed the alcohol.
- Don’t Over-Soak: While longer soaking makes them larger, going significantly beyond 24-48 hours can cause some gummy bears to break down and become too mushy.
What to Serve with Vodka Gummy Bears & When to Enjoy Them
These party-ready Vodka Gummy Bears are a surefire way to garner compliments at your next cocktail party. They are incredibly versatile and fit into many different social settings. Here are some menu planning suggestions to keep the good times rolling all night:
Perfect Pairings (Sides & Appetizers):
Balance the sweetness and fun of the gummy bears with savory bites that are also easy to enjoy in a party setting:
- Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- 3-Ingredient Creamy Hidden Valley Ranch Dip
- 7-Layer Taco Dip
- CrockPot Bourbon Little Smokies
- Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip
- Super Easy Marinated Olives
- Bacon Cheddar Ranch Dip
- CrockPot Spicy Mango Jerk Chicken Wings
Sweet Endings (Desserts):
If you’re looking for more sweet treats to complement your boozy bears, consider these:
- Easy Fruit Salad
- Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treats
- Crock Pot Pecan Praline Dip
- 3-Ingredient Marshmallow Fluff Fruit Dip
- Salted Caramel Rice Krispies Football Treats
- Pecan Pie Puffs
- Bourbon Cherry Brownies
- Ooey-Gooey Butter Cake
Complementary Drinks:
Round out your beverage offerings with other fun and festive drinks:
- Pink Starburst Shot and Cocktail
- Bahama Mama Popsicle
- Scooby Snack Shot
- Girl Scout Cookie Shot
- Sea Blue Martini
- Mini Beer Shot
- RumChata Pudding Shots
- Dill Pickle Martini
- Tequila and Sprite Cocktail
- Snakebite Shot
- Jelly Bean Shot
- Cement Mixer Shot
When to Serve These Boozy Treats:
- Parties: An obvious choice for any adult celebration.
- Game Day: A fun and easy snack while cheering on your favorite team.
- Cocktail Night: A unique twist on traditional cocktails.
- Halloween: Perfect for spooky adult parties.
- Holidays: Add a festive and spirited touch to any holiday gathering.
- Birthdays: A fun surprise for the birthday person and guests.
More Great Recipe Collections to Explore
If you loved this simple yet impressive recipe, be sure to check out some of our other popular collections for more inspiration:
- Vodka Cocktail Recipes
- 2-Ingredient Cocktails
- 20+ Spooktacular Spirits: Halloween Drinks and Cocktails
- 55+ Easy Fruity Alcoholic Drinks
- Easy Dessert Recipes with 5 Ingredients (Or Less!)
We’re always whipping up something delicious! Explore our copycat recipes, mouth-watering dessert recipes, and comforting CrockPot Recipes.
Don’t forget to follow Tammilee Tips on MSN, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for our latest recipe posts and culinary adventures.
Vodka Gummy Bears
Learn how to make vodka gummy bears perfect for any party or gathering.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes (plus soaking)
Author: Tammilee Tips
Calories: Approximately 1300 kcal (per batch)
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Gummy Bears (recommended brand)
- 1 Cup Vodka (or enough to just cover the gummy bears)
Instructions
- Add gummy bears to a bowl or container, ensuring there is ample space for them to expand significantly.
- Pour vodka over the gummy bears until they are just barely covered.
- Cover the bowl lightly and allow the gummy bears to soak at room temperature for at least 4-6 hours, or ideally 24 hours, for full absorption and maximum plumpness.
- Serve chilled with spoons or toothpicks.
Nutrition Facts
Love this recipe? Follow @TammileeTIps on Pinterest!
Tried this recipe? Mention @TammileeTipsLife when you share a photo!